CM Punk recently went undercover on the internet for GQ’s “Actually Me” video series, responding to fan comments and questions from social media. In his signature unfiltered style, Punk addressed a wide range of topics, including his relationship with Vince McMahon, his “wrestling soul mate,” his philosophy on promos, and his blunt thoughts on retirement.
On His Relationship with Vince McMahon
Punk shared two stories that shed light on his past conflicts with former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. He revealed that securing his iconic “Cult of Personality” theme song was a key point in a contract negotiation.
“I knew how much Vince McMahon hated to pay for licensed music,” Punk explained. “And I said, ‘Guess what, pal, the only way I’m re-signing is if I get this song.’ I thought he was gonna say no and I was gonna peace out and go on vacation, and he said yes, and well, now here I am.”
He also recounted another clash that occurred when he bleached his hair during his time as the leader of the Straight Edge Society. “All hell broke loose,” Punk recalled. “It turned into a big thing where Vince McMahon was very upset with me and demanded I dyed my hair back, and I refused to do it. It turned into a a thing.”
His “Wrestling Soul Mate” and All-Time Favorite Match
When asked to name his favorite match of all time, Punk pointed to a specific encounter with a frequent rival, whom he holds in high regard.
“Number one with a bullet, myself versus John Cena,” Punk stated, referencing their match on Raw to determine who would face The Rock at WrestleMania 29. “John Cena is my wrestling soul mate. Had excellent chemistry with him. This night the crowd was electric. It’s a real fun time.” He also named Bret “The Hitman” Hart as his dream tag team partner from the list of living wrestlers.
The Art of the Promo
A fan praised Punk’s promo ability, leading him to explain his process and influences. “I learned from watching the great wordsmiths of our business: Roddy Piper, Paul Heyman, Jim Cornette,” he said. “And I’ve always just had that chip on my shoulder and a mouth. So a lot of it I was indeed born with… I try not to plan too much, because I feel like it needs to be in the moment. I need to be less of an actor and more of a reactor.”
A Blunt Message on Retirement
In response to a fan wondering when he might retire, Punk was characteristically direct.
“I’ll fucking retire whenever I want to,” he said. “There’s work to be done, okay? And you’re gonna miss me when I’m gone, so shut the fuck up.”
The Line Between “CM Punk” and “Phil Brooks”
Punk also took the time to define the boundaries he maintains with fans in public. He made a clear distinction between his on-screen persona and his private life.
“One of the hardest parts of being a WWE superstar for me, at least, is the relationship I have with fans in public. You see me on the street, I am not CM Punk. I’m just a dude, Phil, trying to mind his own business,” he said. Punk noted he is happy to interact with fans at arenas but draws a hard line elsewhere. “If you are waiting for me at an airport or a hotel, I will say no, thank you, sir. This is an airport and/or a hotel, this is tantamount to stalking.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit GQ with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
